Every week, Alliance for a Better Minnesota will highlight the important work being done in the progressive community. Focusing on issues that impact Minnesotans’ lives, this important work helps Minnesota continue moving forward.

Green Line Now Open: Last Saturday, the long-awaited Green Line light rail traveling from downtown St. Paul to downtown Minneapolis finally opened. Riders celebrated the rail’s unveiling by riding for free all day Saturday. Metro Transit officials estimate that the new, 24-hour line will attract 27,500 rides each weekday during its first year.

Non-Corrupt Minnesotan Leaders: Research from Indiana University and City University of Hong Kong has revealed Minnesota to be the third least-corrupt state in the United States. The 10 most corrupt states spent an average of $1,308 extra per capita–5.2% of the mean per capita expenditure.

Editorial Board For Peace Corps Women: Last week, the Editorial Board at the New York Times wrote a piece calling for lawmakers to repeal the unfair prohibition that doesn’t allow for abortion coverage in the Peace Corps volunteers’ health care program. The Board argues that women make up more than 60 percent of the Peace Corps, and during their volunteering time they are often placed into situations where an unwanted pregnancy may occur.

Patent Office Cancels Redskins Trademark: The US Patent and Trademark Office revoked the Washington Redskins’ trademark this week because it was deemed “disparaging to Native Americans.” The issue has gained national attention in the last year, as over 50 Democratic Senators wrote to the NFL encouraging them to change the team’s name.